KARACHI:
The Federal Budget 2021-2022 announced on 11th June, 2021 has given unparalleled incentives to the people such as interest free loans for starting new business. Taxes in various primary and secondary sectors have been slashed or reduced despite IMF pressures, which will boost agriculture and industrial growth. People in general have shown contentment against mixed preapprehensions about the budget. A 10% rise in pay and pension, increased allocation in Ehsaas cash transfers, health coverage through Sehat card and tax relief for women entrepreneur need a special applaud.
The government faced a very difficult time stabilising the traumatised economy in the midst of innumerous hurdles created by the opposition to derail the government. But the government’s constructive approach and optimistic determination enabled the country to steer out of the challenges. Finally, the focus is shifting towards sustainable growth. Increased foreign remittances, boost in agriculture and higher exports played a pivotal role in stabilising the government’s finances and trade balance.
The budget is a political tool to win the confidence of the people for future advances. But at the same time, the opposition has made all efforts to jeopardise it even before it is presented. The major two opposition parties, PML-N and PPP, secured 107 seats against PTI’s 116 in the National Assembly during July 2018 elections. One wonders as to what service has the opposition extended to its own voters or to the country. The opposition in a Parliament has a duty to offer voters a credible alternative to the government in office. It must have a program which it is ready to implement. It must engage in constructive and responsible opposition by making counter proposals. But here the opposition is most disorganised and directionless.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2021.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
